Other Names:
RC-800, MC-800, Rapid-Curing Cutback, Medium-Curing Cutback, Slow-Curing Cutback, Liquid Asphalt, Bitumen Solvent Blend
Specification Summary
- Purity: ≥99% bitumen base (solvent content varies by grade)
- Form: Low-viscosity liquid (temperature-dependent)
- CAS No.: 8052-42-4 (bitumen base)
- Molecular Formula: Complex hydrocarbon mixture (primarily C₅₀–C₇₀)
- Molecular Weight: ~600–1,500 g/mol (varies with solvent blend)
Product Description
Cutback bitumen is a dark brown to black liquid produced by blending penetration-grade bitumen with volatile solvents like kerosene, diesel, or naphtha. It is insoluble in water, partially soluble in aromatic solvents, and non-corrosive. The material is neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7–9) and remains stable at ambient temperatures. Its reduced viscosity allows easy application without preheating, while the solvent evaporates post-application, leaving a durable bitumen residue. Cutback bitumen offers adjustable curing times (rapid, medium, slow) depending on solvent volatility, making it versatile for diverse climates and projects.
Cutback Bitumen Specification Table
| Property | Specification / Typical Value | Test Method |
| Bitumen Content | 55–75% | ASTM D6997 |
| Solvent Type | Kerosene, Diesel, Naphtha | Supplier Certification |
| Flash Point (min) | ≥66°C | ASTM D92 |
| Kinematic Viscosity @ 60°C | 800–1,600 cSt (grade-dependent) | ASTM D2170 |
| Distillation Residue @ 360°C | ≥75% | ASTM D402 |
| Penetration @ 25°C (residue) | 120–250 dmm | ASTM D5 |
| Ductility @ 25°C (residue) | ≥100 cm | ASTM D113 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | ≥99% | ASTM D2042 |
| Water Content | ≤0.2% | ASTM D95 |
| Curing Time | 1–72 hours (solvent-dependent) | Field Testing |
Downloadable TDS:
A comprehensive Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available for download, detailing specifications, safety protocols, and handling guidelines.
Application Sectors and Industries of Cutback Bitumen
Road Construction and Surfacing
Cutback bitumen is used for prime coats, tack coats, and surface dressing in road construction. Its low viscosity ensures deep penetration into base layers, enhancing adhesion and waterproofing for asphalt pavements.
Pavement Maintenance
Ideal for pothole repairs, crack sealing, and patching, cutback bitumen bonds quickly to existing surfaces, extending road lifespan with minimal traffic disruption.
Dust Control on Unpaved Roads
Sprayed on gravel roads, it binds loose particles, reducing dust emissions and improving air quality in rural and industrial areas.
Waterproofing and Damp Proofing
Applied to foundations, basements, and retaining walls, cutback bitumen forms a moisture-resistant barrier, preventing water ingress in construction projects.
Roofing and Protective Coatings
Used in roofing membranes and protective paints, it provides UV resistance and flexibility for commercial and residential buildings.
Hydraulic Engineering
Serves as a waterproofing agent in canal linings, dam facings, and reservoir membranes, resisting hydrostatic pressure and erosion.
Railway Ballast Stabilization
Binds trackbed aggregates, reducing dust and maintenance in rail networks while improving load distribution.
Industrial Flooring
Acts as a binder in heavy-duty flooring systems, offering chemical resistance and durability for warehouses and factories.
Agricultural Infrastructure
Waterproofs irrigation channels, silos, and farm storage facilities, protecting assets from moisture damage.
Temporary Roadways
Enables rapid deployment of temporary access roads in mining, logging, and construction sites, even in cold climates.
Packaging Types
- Steel Drums (150–200 kg):Sealed, reusable containers for small-scale projects or controlled storage. Ideal for remote sites and phased applications.
- Jumbo Bags (1,000–1,500 kg):Multi-layer polypropylene bags with UV resistance, designed for bulk transport. Reduces waste by 3–4% compared to drums.
- Bulk Tankers (20,000–30,000 liters):Insulated tankers for direct delivery to large construction sites, minimizing handling and ensuring product integrity.
- Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs):Reusable 1,000-liter containers with pallet bases for easy dispensing in manufacturing plants.
- Flexi Tanks:High-capacity, single-use tanks for international shipping, compatible with standard containerized logistics.
Cutback bitumen’s adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of application make it a cornerstone of modern infrastructure and construction. For detailed technical and safety guidelines, refer to the downloadable Technical Data Sheet (TDS).
